upgrade server spec

[macky@staktrading.com]

Hi All,

I have  a server running minivend which has started stalling during busy times. Using the top command, perl will be
occupying 100% cpu and sit there for a few mins. All other requests queue up behind it until they time out.

I am running 2x PIII 550 cpu,s , 384mb sdram, ultra wide scsi on an asus motherboard.

I would like to be able to use another system of similar spec to load balance or cluster to share the load over several
servers. Has this been done with minivend??

If not, would it be worth upgrading to twin xeon chips or using an alpha instead?

Most importantly, a scalable solution would be preferred.

Any advice???

Many thanks,

Macky..